“The scenes that we have witnessed over the last twenty-four hours are reprehensible. The authorities have said they will investigate. That investigation must be full and open. In addition the abuse of internet and mobile networks and, in particular, today’s increased intimidation and harassment of journalists are unacceptable and disturbing.

I am extremely concerned about the potential for further violence. The world will be watching closely how the Egyptian authorities respond. Their reputation will be severely damaged if we see violence at the levels we have seen recently.

The Egyptian people’s right to express their views in public freely must be defended. Today’s scenes underline further the imperative need for the Egyptian authorities urgently to commit to an orderly transition to a broader-based Government that respects the legitimate aspirations of the Egyptian people.”